Apple’s Macs are usually thought-about safer than Home windows PCs, however they don’t seem to be resistant to hackers. Quite a few incidents show that Macs should not impenetrable, and a brand new one has not too long ago been added to the record. Safety researchers have found a brand new variant of stealer malware that targets browser credentials, cryptocurrency wallets and different private information. I reported on this malware in 2024 as well. Beforehand, it relied on macOS browser extensions to steal information. Now, it makes use of phishing web sites and faux GitHub repositories to focus on Macs, which have a person base of 100 million folks.
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An individual engaged on their Apple laptop computer (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
The evolution of info-stealer Mac malware
Cybersecurity firm Check Point has found a brand new variant of info-stealer malware, BanShee. Elastic Safety Labs first highlighted this malware in mid-2024, noting that it operates as malware-as-a-service, a enterprise mannequin wherein cybercriminals present entry to malicious software program and associated infrastructure for a charge. At the moment, it was out there for as a lot as $3,000 per thirty days.
Verify Level says this malware developed in September after being uncovered. This time, its builders had “stolen” a string encryption algorithm from Apple’s personal XProtect antivirus engine, which changed the plain textual content strings used within the authentic model. Since antivirus applications count on to see this type of encryption from Apple’s legit safety instruments, they weren’t flagged as suspicious, permitting the BanShee to stay undetected and quietly steal information from focused gadgets.
A girl engaged on her Apple desktop and Apple laptop computer (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
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How the Mac malware operates
BanShee Stealer is a major instance of how superior malware has turn out to be. As soon as it’s on a system, it will get straight to work stealing all types of delicate data. It goes after information from browsers like Chrome, Courageous, Edge and Vivaldi, in addition to cryptocurrency pockets extensions. It even takes benefit of two-factor authentication (2FA) extensions to seize credentials. On high of that, it collects particulars concerning the system’s software program and {hardware}, in addition to the exterior IP deal with.
The Mac malware additionally methods customers with faux pop-ups that seem like actual system prompts, tricking victims into coming into their macOS passwords. As soon as it has gathered the stolen data, BanShee exfiltrates it to command-and-control servers, utilizing encrypted and encoded recordsdata to make sure the info stays safe.
The malware’s creators used GitHub repositories to unfold BanShee. They arrange faux repositories that seemed like they hosted fashionable software program, full with stars and critiques, to look reliable. These campaigns didn’t simply goal macOS customers with BanShee. Additionally they hit Home windows customers with a special malware called Lumma Stealer. Over three waves, the attackers used these faux repositories to trick folks into downloading their malicious recordsdata.
A girl engaged on her laptop computer (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
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5 tricks to shield your self from Mac malware
Comply with these important tricks to safeguard your Mac from the most recent malware threats, together with the infamous BanShee Stealer.
1) Have robust antivirus software program: One of the best ways to safeguard your self from malicious hyperlinks that set up malware, probably accessing your personal data, is to have antivirus software program put in on all of your gadgets. This safety may warn you to phishing emails and ransomware scams, preserving your private data and digital property secure. Get my picks for the best 2025 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices.
2) Be cautious with downloads and hyperlinks: Solely obtain software program from respected sources such because the Mac App Retailer or official web sites of trusted builders. Be cautious of unsolicited emails or messages prompting you to obtain or set up updates, particularly in the event that they include hyperlinks. Phishing makes an attempt usually disguise themselves as legit replace notifications or pressing messages.
3) Hold your software program up to date: Be certain that each macOS and all put in functions are updated. Apple incessantly releases safety patches and updates that deal with vulnerabilities. Allow automated updates for macOS and your apps to remain protected with out having to manually test for updates. If you happen to want extra assist, see my guide on keeping all your devices updated.
4) Use robust and distinctive passwords: To guard your Mac from malware, it’s additionally essential to make use of robust, distinctive passwords for all of your accounts and gadgets. Keep away from reusing passwords throughout completely different websites or providers. A password manager will be extremely useful right here; it generates and shops complicated passwords for you, making them troublesome for hackers to crack.
It additionally retains observe of all of your passwords in a single place and robotically fills them in if you log into accounts, so that you don’t have to recollect them your self. By decreasing the variety of passwords you’ll want to recall, you’re much less more likely to reuse them, which lowers the danger of safety breaches. Get extra particulars about my best expert-reviewed password managers of 2025 here.
5) Use two-factor authentication (2FA): Allow 2FA on your necessary accounts, together with your Apple ID, e mail and any monetary providers. This provides an additional step to the login course of, making it more durable for attackers to realize entry even when they’ve your password.
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Kurt’s key takeaway
No system is resistant to cyberattacks when a human operator is concerned. Take the BanShee Stealer, for instance. It managed to focus on Macs not attributable to weak cybersecurity measures by Apple however as a result of it efficiently tricked customers into putting in it and granting the required permissions. Most breaches, hacks and different cyberattacks stem from human error. This highlights the significance of sustaining fundamental cybersecurity hygiene. It is essential to know what you’re downloading, guarantee it’s from a trusted supply and punctiliously evaluate the permissions you grant to any on-line service or utility.
When downloading new software program, how do you establish if it’s secure to put in? Do you depend on app retailer scores, critiques or one thing else? Tell us by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.
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